Have I mentioned that we took a trip to Portland last week? Because, I was just a LITTLE bit excited leading up to it. I’ve officially been a Hawaii resident for 2 years, and I haven’t returned to Portland once in that time. Needless to say, I had a long list of people, places, and things to see during our short trip back. It was a whirlwind for sure. Continue reading →

In case you’ve been stuck under a rock – or, on a rock, in my case, it’s officially pumpkin season. And even though I get caught up in the excitement every year when the season rolls around, I’m always a little cautiously optimistic about the latest and greatest pumpkin products. Is it just me, or are they totally hit or miss? Continue reading →

It took a few weeks for all of my blog supplies to arrive in Hawaii, but my set-up is finally here – and I couldn’t be more excited to share my first recipe from my new home. One of my favorite things about living in Hawaii is the abundance of tropical fruit, which I simply can’t get enough of. And although I’ve been gobbling up fresh pineapples, papaya and mango, these tropical fruits are perfect for baking, too. Continue reading →

This weekend was sunny and warm in Portland. Ironically enough, I’m working from South Carolina for the week – where it’s storming and humid. What are the odds?! Regardless of the weather, I’ve had a little bit of time to explore and check out the scenes. I’ve never been to the South before, so everything is new to me: the accents, the architecture, the food. And so far, it’s not disappointing. Southern hospitality is no joke. Everyone here is so friendly! It actually reminds me a little bit of home.

One of my favorite things about food is that it can instantly transport you to a different place or time. When I drink a tropical cocktail, I can close my eyes and nearly feel the Hawaiian sunshine – even on the most rainy day here in Portland. And then there’s Rice Crispy Treats smothered in Lucky Charms cereal. I don’t know about you, but these two treats were probably my two favorite things about childhood. So mashed together? It’s a magical blast from the past. And just in time for St. Patrick’s Day.

I hate to start this post by talking about the weather… but holy cow, this winter is crazy! From a massive snow storm a few weeks ago to torrential downpours today, I’m so ready for spring. There’s only one good thing about this time of year, and it’s two words: pineapple season. That’s right, you heard me. From Pineapple Fried Rice to Pineapple Coleslaw, Grilled Peach and Pineapple Salsa to Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Pineapple Jalapeños… well, I think you get the idea. I can go a little crazy. So here’s one more recipe to add to the list: Fresh Pineapple Cheesecake.

First things first, let’s just get one thing straight: eating chocolate for breakfast is perfectly acceptable when there’s fruit mixed in. Like this Double Chocolate Banana Bread. Totally breakfast food.Second thing: sometimes one type of chocolate just isn’t enough. For these special occasions, you’ve gotta go double or go home. Just trust me on this one.

Sometimes I’m so eager to get food (specifically, sweets) out of my house that I bring them to work without thinking of the implications. Like the time I was asked to make the gender reveal cupcakes for a friend’s party – and I brought my test batch into work. I swear my coworkers thought I was trying to make a special announcement (and to squash the rumors – no, I’m no pregnant. And yes, I’m drinking a glass of wine as I edit this post). Continue reading →

Do you ever wonder what happens to all the food showcased on this blog? I absolutely hate to waste, but I’ve gotten in the habit of offloading many of my recipes – particularly bite-sized desserts, which have a habit of disappearing far too quickly. This recipe for Gluten Free + Vegan Chocolate Coconut Cookies was no exception, and I was happy to bring a tupperware o’ treats to share with my colleagues. Not only because Mondays are hard, and cookies make it better, but also because these cookies are simply delicious. If I do say so myself.

And speaking of saying so… so did my manager’s manager’s manager (the director of my whole department!), who promptly shouted across the office: “YUM! You’ll always have a job here, Marisa!”

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Meet Marisa

Aloha, and welcome to Margaritas In The Rain! My name is Marisa. I live in Hawaii, where I cook approachable food. With an island twist. And yes, I do love drinking margaritas on rainy days. Care to join me?